News Release

Tuesday, February 6, 2001

Officers Set-Up Trust Fund for Victim's Children

"Officers Set Up Trust Fund for Victim's Children "

Northridge - On January 20, 2001, moments after dropping off her 17 year old daughter Jessica at work, Judith Lopez and her eight year old daughter, Beatrice, lost their lives when their vehicle was hit broadside at the intersection of Tampa Avenue and Parthenia Street. A third passenger in the vehicle, six year old Jaime Lopez, received multiple leg fractures, facial trauma and a broken wrist.

Two Devonshire Area officers who responded to the scene of the traffic collision, Officers Ernie Jimenez and Richard Sauer were greatly affected by the tragic loss experienced by the Lopez family. Both officers have maintained contact with the family and have visited Jaime several times at the hospital. They had a strong desire to assist the Lopez family in a tangible way. The Lopez family is coping with their tragedy as well as can be expected, however, their financial situation is bleak. As a result, Devonshire Community Police Station, in conjunction with the Bank of Granada Hills, has established two trust funds, one for Jessica Roman and one for Jaime Lopez.

On Thursday, February 8, 2001, at 2:00 p.m., a press conference will be held in front of Devonshire Station, located at 10250 Etiwanda Avenue in Northridge, to announce the establishment of the trust funds and to explain how interested parties can contribute to them. Media personnel are invited and encouraged to cover the press conference.

For further information please contact Captain Joseph Curreri, Commanding Officer of Devonshire Community Police Station at 818-756-8281.